About

The story began when Jim and Debbie Hewett purchased a converted horse box known as The Hoppy Mare.  It had been lovingly restored and set up with everything needed for a fully functioning mini pub, but the previous owners didn't have time to make use of it.  Excited by the prospect of owning his own pub, Jim took his Licensee course and invested in an exciting new brand for the trailer. Like many businesses in the hospitality sector during the pandemic they diversified from traditional one off events to providing a 'temporary pub' at their local village hall for the summer of 2020 and a bar at a local holiday park during the summer of 2021 ensuring locals and holiday makers didn't go thirsty!!

With the demand for indoor bars growing in late 2021 The Hoppy Mare brand expanded and 'The Barrel Bar' was created to give the same feel as the horse box conversion but suitable for indoor venues.

Jim, a former firefighter from London, and Debbie, a fire service control officer, have been working in their local pub in Stogumber, West Somerset and love the atmosphere that can be created when great drinks are served to happy customers.  They moved to the South West to live their dream of "Escaping to the Country"  - and owning a business which ensures others have a great time is a huge bonus!